Autism

Identifying Asperger`s Syndrome

10/31/2007

Question:

I am a 40 year old female and I feel that I may have this. How do I approach my doctor?

Answer:

If you feel you may have Asperger's Syndrome, it would be worthwhile to print out the list of criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual -- the DSM-IV-TR -- and descriptions from some other books and websites highlighting those that you feel describe your personality and challenges. Give this to your doctor to review.

You will want a referral from your doctor for an evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist who has experience with autism spectrum disorders, and you will probably find maintaining a relationship with that person worthwhile should further counseling be required.

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